PAYING IT FORWARD

One of the things that makes a martial arts school special is the way knowledge and encouragement are passed from one student to another.

At KB Fitness in London, that has been part of the ethos from the start. KB member Sonya is a great example. Over the 23 years she’s been a KB member, she has become a familiar and supportive presence to generations of students, regularly helping others with feedback, tips and encouragement while continuing her own martial arts journey.

Recently, when another student, Kim, described Sonya as a fabulous ambassador for KB Kung Fu, Sonya explained just how much of her own journey has been shaped by Kelly (KB) in this lovely message:

“For me, KB Kung Fu is very much about learning the traditional techniques passed down through the generations, but also about learning from Kelly KB how to use them with precision, control and purpose. My love of the art form, achieving my KB Black Sash and continuing my Kung Fu journey while paying it forward to other students, is all down to Kelly KB. She is a true inspiration. Her kindness, unwavering support and constant encouragement plus her love of Kung Fu have made me into the martial artist that I am today.”

Those words prompted a wider conversation among KB members, with students taking the opportunity to thank Kelly for the dedication and passion that have kept KB Fitness going for 27 years.

KB member Kelly Fiestas wrote, “Thank you for your dedication to us, Kelly. And for still being willing and excited to share your passion with us week in, week out.”

Sue, who’s also been a KB member for 23 years, said, “It’s amazing that even after 27 years, you still have that passion and desire to keep giving and giving!”

For Phoebe, finding KB was an important part of starting her own martial arts journey: “When I was first starting my martial arts journey, I had no idea where to start. But I feel so lucky to have found such an amazing school! Thank you Kelly!”

Kelly, in turn, thanked the students and instructors for making the school the strong community it is today, and expressed her appreciation for the messages members regularly send after classes.

“Your commitment to the school is exemplary,” she told Sonya. “Thank you to all my teachers for delivering the lessons every week. And thank you to you, our students, for choosing my school. We’re on a great journey together.”

It is a lovely reminder that a martial arts journey is not only about what happens during training. The techniques, knowledge, encouragement and experience gained over the years can be passed on to others, helping each new generation of students find their own place within the school.

For KB members like Sonya, who have been part of the school for many years, that means continuing to train in KB Kickboxing, KB Self Defence and KB Kung Fu while supporting other students. For the wider KB community, it means recognising the people who have helped shape their own martial arts journeys.

Interested in finding out more about KB Fitness martial arts classes in Central London? Book your free KB Kickboxing trial class today.